After acquitting Ahmed Omar Saeed Sheikh who is accused of killing American journalist Daniel Pearl in 2002, the Pakistan Supreme Court said the London-based terrorist should be kept in an easy environment in jail.

Pakistan Supreme Court rejects plea to halt Omar Sheikh's release

The Sindh government on Friday filed a review petition before Pakistan Supreme Court after it granted a release order for Omar Saeed Sheikh, the prime suspect in Daniel Pearl killing.

Pakistan files review petition in Supreme Court in Daniel Pearl case

The Supreme Court of Pakistan on Tuesday gave authorities two weeks to start the reconstruction of the Hindu temple demolished by a mob in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa's Karak. The temple was demolished and set on fire by hundreds of people on December 30. 
 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/watch-mob-led-by-muslim-cleric-attacks-sets-hindu-temple-ablaze-in-pakistan-353500">Also read | Watch: Mob led by Muslim cleric attacks, sets Hindu temple ablaze in Pakistan</a> 
 
The court directed the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa government and Auqaf department to start the work immediately and submit a progress report in two weeks. Chief Justice of Pakistan Justice Gulzar Ahmed said that the people, who vandalised the temple, should pay for its restoration.

A central leader of radical Jamiat Ulema-e-Islam party, Rehmat Salam Khattak, is among those arrested in police raids following the attack on Terri temple and Samadhi of Shri Paramhans Ji Maharaj in Karak area of Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa (KP) on Wednesday, police said.

The mob, led by some local clerics and the supporters of Jamiat Ulema-e-Islam party (Fazal ur Rehman group), protesting the expansion work of the shrine, demolished the newly constructed work alongside the old structure.

Over 350 people have been named in the FIR, Provincial Police Chief KPK Sanaullah Abbasi has said. The Samadhi of Shri Paramhans Ji Maharaj is considered very sacred by the minority Hindu community in Pakistan. It is dedicated to Shri Paramhans Ji Maharaj and was built where he died in 1919 in Teri village of Karak.

On Sunday, Members of the minority communities held a protest outside the Peshawar Press Club against the demolition of Hindu temple in Karak district of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province demanding government to take action against the police officials for not taking measures to prevent the attack.

(With inputs from agencies)

The Supreme Court of Pakistan on Tuesday gave authorities two weeks to start the reconstruction of the Hindu temple demolished by a mob in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa's Karak.

The Supreme Court of Pakistan on Tuesday gave authorities two weeks to start the reconstruction of the Hindu temple demolished by a mob in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa's Karak. The temple was demolished and set on fire by hundreds of people on December 30. Also read | Watch: Mob led by Muslim cleric attacks, sets Hindu temple ablaze in Pakistan The court directed the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa government and Auqaf department to start the work immediately and submit a progress report in two weeks. Chief Justice of Pakistan Justice Gulzar Ahmed said that the people, who vandalised the temple, should pay for its restoration. A central leader of radical Jamiat Ulema-e-Islam party, Rehmat Salam Khattak, is among those arrested in police raids following the attack on Terri temple and Samadhi of Shri Paramhans Ji Maharaj in Karak area of Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa (KP) on Wednesday, police said. The mob, led by some local clerics and the supporters of Jamiat Ulema-e-Islam party (Fazal ur Rehman group), protesting the expansion work of the shrine, demolished the newly constructed work alongside the old structure. Over 350 people have been named in the FIR, Provincial Police Chief KPK Sanaullah Abbasi has said. The Samadhi of Shri Paramhans Ji Maharaj is considered very sacred by the minority Hindu community in Pakistan. It is dedicated to Shri Paramhans Ji Maharaj and was built where he died in 1919 in Teri village of Karak. On Sunday, Members of the minority communities held a protest outside the Peshawar Press Club against the demolition of Hindu temple in Karak district of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province demanding government to take action against the police officials for not taking measures to prevent the attack. (With inputs from agencies)

Start reconstruction of vandalised Hindu temple within two weeks: Pakistan Supreme Court

A Pakistani court on Thursday ordered the immediate release of four men accused of orchestrating the 2002 kidnapping and murder of American journalist Daniel Pearl, including the main suspect earlier sentenced to death for masterminding the killing. The Sindh government in a surprise move has now decided not to release killers. Watch this video to know more.

Pakistan's Sindh government not to release four accused in Daniel Pearl’s murder case

Daniel Pearl was kidnapped & beheaded by Pakistani terrorists in 2002. 18 years on, a Pakistani court has ordered the 'immediate release' of his killers.

Gravitas: Pak court orders release of Daniel Pearl's killers

Daniel Pearl's killers are set to walk free on Saturday. The Pearl family has appealed to Pakistan's Supreme Court to provide justice for 'their beloved son'. Palki Sharma Upadhyay tells you why the world must oppose their release.

Daniel Pearl's killers to walk free

A lawyer representing the parents of slain US journalist Daniel Pearl has produced a handwritten letter in Pakistan's Supreme Court in which the key accused in the case claimed that he was a "scapegoat" arrested under "US pressure" and the real mastermind was a Karachi-based terrorist.

Pearl, the 38-year-old South Asia bureau chief for The Wall Street Journal, was abducted and beheaded while he was in Pakistan investigating a story in 2002 on the links between the country's powerful spy agency ISI and al-Qaeda.

British-born al-Qaeda leader Ahmed Omar Saeed Sheikh and his three aides were convicted and sentenced in the abduction and murder case of Pearl. In April, they were exonerated by the Sindh High Court and an appeal against their acquittal is being heard in the Supreme Court.

According to a Express Tribune report on Sunday, Faisal Siddiqui, counsel for Pearl's parents, has produced the handwritten letter in the Supreme Court in which Sheikh claimed that the real culprit was a militant, Attaur Rehman, from Karachi.

Siddiqui told the apex court that the letter was submitted to the Sindh High Court on July 19, 2019.

In the letter, Sheikh claimed that he was "a scapegoat" arrested on the "US pressure" and that the real culprit was Rehman.

The letter was produced during a hearing of the appeals against the acquittal of the four accused in the Pearl murder case. A three-judge special bench led by Justice Mushir Alam heard the appeals of the Sindh government and Pearl's parents, Ruth and Judie Pearl, against the high court ruling.

Siddiqui contended that the bench must consider it. However, the apex court will decide on it on the next date of hearing on January 4, the report said.

Sheikh further said in his letter that he had been in prison under the death sentence since 2002, charged and convicted for the abduction and murder of Pearl. However, it was on public record that neither did he abduct Pearl nor did he murder him and it had been acknowledged by the US government and by Pakistan's former president Pervez Musharraf in his book.

Sheikh said his role in this case was a relatively minor one, which did not warrant the death sentence, adding that he had already served in prison -- most of which has been in illegal solitary confinement.

According to the letter, the pressure on the Pakistan government at the time (in 2002) by the US was so intense that Sheikh was used as a "scapegoat" to lessen that pressure.

"Therefore, evidence was fabricated against me to convict me of the abduction and murder of Daniel Pearl,"&nbsp;Sheikh claimed.

"Later, when the person (Rehman alias Naeem Bukhari) who actually abducted Daniel was arrested, he was not charged with the case because to do so would have exposed the lies and perjured evidence that the Musharraf government used to convict me,? he added.

The letter claimed that despite Rs 1 million reward money on Rehman -- because of his role in the case -- he was not produced in court but was kept in secret illegal custody of the Rangers for five years, then in Sukkur jail for two years and charged only with a fabricated case of possession of drugs.

After Rehman's release, he is alleged to have organised some of the most devastating attacks Karachi has ever seen, including blowing up of the Rangers Headquarters in Nazimabad, where he was previously secretly held, Sheikh claimed.

The letter also claimed that if Ata was executed then the evidence, which would prove the truth about Pearl's case, would be lost forever. Therefore, Sheikh requested the court to pass a stay order that would ensure that Rehman was not executed until testified in the Pearl case.

"The court is also requested to arrange for the hearing of this appeal without further delay on a day to day basis and to summon both me and Rehman to the court for hearing so that I may be exonerated of the fabricated charges against me and given an opportunity to clarify my actual role in this matter so that my sentence may be reduced, accordingly to one which is consistent with the requirements of justice," the letter stated.

Two days after the Sindh High Court overturned Sheikh's conviction in April, the Sindh government invoked the Maintenance of Public Order to keep the four convicts in jail.

Though exonerated by the court, the Sindh government has refused to set Sheikh free citing that he could pose a threat to public order.&nbsp;

A lawyer representing the parents of slain US journalist Daniel Pearl has produced a handwritten letter in Pakistan's Supreme Court in which the key accused in the case claimed that he was a "scapegoat" arrested under "US pressure" and the real mastermind was a Karachi-based terrorist.

A lawyer representing the parents of slain US journalist Daniel Pearl has produced a handwritten letter in Pakistan's Supreme Court in which the key accused in the case claimed that he was a "scapegoat" arrested under "US pressure" and the real mastermind was a Karachi-based terrorist. Pearl, the 38-year-old South Asia bureau chief for The Wall Street Journal, was abducted and beheaded while he was in Pakistan investigating a story in 2002 on the links between the country's powerful spy agency ISI and al-Qaeda. British-born al-Qaeda leader Ahmed Omar Saeed Sheikh and his three aides were convicted and sentenced in the abduction and murder case of Pearl. In April, they were exonerated by the Sindh High Court and an appeal against their acquittal is being heard in the Supreme Court. According to a Express Tribune report on Sunday, Faisal Siddiqui, counsel for Pearl's parents, has produced the handwritten letter in the Supreme Court in which Sheikh claimed that the real culprit was a militant, Attaur Rehman, from Karachi. Siddiqui told the apex court that the letter was submitted to the Sindh High Court on July 19, 2019. In the letter, Sheikh claimed that he was "a scapegoat" arrested on the "US pressure" and that the real culprit was Rehman. The letter was produced during a hearing of the appeals against the acquittal of the four accused in the Pearl murder case. A three-judge special bench led by Justice Mushir Alam heard the appeals of the Sindh government and Pearl's parents, Ruth and Judie Pearl, against the high court ruling. Siddiqui contended that the bench must consider it. However, the apex court will decide on it on the next date of hearing on January 4, the report said. Sheikh further said in his letter that he had been in prison under the death sentence since 2002, charged and convicted for the abduction and murder of Pearl. However, it was on public record that neither did he abduct Pearl nor did he murder him and it had been acknowledged by the US government and by Pakistan's former president Pervez Musharraf in his book. Sheikh said his role in this case was a relatively minor one, which did not warrant the death sentence, adding that he had already served in prison -- most of which has been in illegal solitary confinement. According to the letter, the pressure on the Pakistan government at the time (in 2002) by the US was so intense that Sheikh was used as a "scapegoat" to lessen that pressure. "Therefore, evidence was fabricated against me to convict me of the abduction and murder of Daniel Pearl," Sheikh claimed. "Later, when the person (Rehman alias Naeem Bukhari) who actually abducted Daniel was arrested, he was not charged with the case because to do so would have exposed the lies and perjured evidence that the Musharraf government used to convict me,? he added. The letter claimed that despite Rs 1 million reward money on Rehman -- because of his role in the case -- he was not produced in court but was kept in secret illegal custody of the Rangers for five years, then in Sukkur jail for two years and charged only with a fabricated case of possession of drugs. After Rehman's release, he is alleged to have organised some of the most devastating attacks Karachi has ever seen, including blowing up of the Rangers Headquarters in Nazimabad, where he was previously secretly held, Sheikh claimed. The letter also claimed that if Ata was executed then the evidence, which would prove the truth about Pearl's case, would be lost forever. Therefore, Sheikh requested the court to pass a stay order that would ensure that Rehman was not executed until testified in the Pearl case. "The court is also requested to arrange for the hearing of this appeal without further delay on a day to day basis and to summon both me and Rehman to the court for hearing so that I may be exonerated of the fabricated charges against me and given an opportunity to clarify my actual role in this matter so that my sentence may be reduced, accordingly to one which is consistent with the requirements of justice," the letter stated. Two days after the Sindh High Court overturned Sheikh's conviction in April, the Sindh government invoked the Maintenance of Public Order to keep the four convicts in jail. Though exonerated by the court, the Sindh government has refused to set Sheikh free citing that he could pose a threat to public order.

Pakistan Supreme Court to decide on letter of Daniel Pearl's murder accused

The Supreme Court in Pakistan has accepted an appeal by the family of slain American journalist Daniel Pearl seeking to keep the accused on death row over the beheading of the reporter.

Ahmed Omar Saeed Sheikh, a British-born Pakistani man, has been accused of killing the Wall Street Journal reporter. He has&nbsp;been on death row since his conviction in 2002.

The court delayed until next week hearing the appeal over the lower-court acquittal of Sheikh.

Sheikh had reportedly helped lure Pearl to a meeting in the southern Pakistani port city of Karachi in which he was kidnapped.&nbsp;

When he was killed, Pearl had been investigating the link between Pakistani militants and Richard C Reid, also known as the “Shoe Bomber”.

The lower court’s April ruling acquitted Sheikh and three other accomplices, who had been sentenced to life in jail for their role in the plot.&nbsp;

This despite the fact that a letter written by Sheikh on July 19, 2019 had acknowledged his involvement in Pearl’s killing.

Pearl was abducted January 23, 2002. Pakistani police sought to locate Pearl for weeks until a video received by US diplomats showed his beheading.

The Supreme Court in Pakistan has accepted an appeal by the family of slain American journalist Daniel Pearl seeking to keep the accused on death row over the beheading of the reporter.

The Supreme Court in Pakistan has accepted an appeal by the family of slain American journalist Daniel Pearl seeking to keep the accused on death row over the beheading of the reporter. Ahmed Omar Saeed Sheikh, a British-born Pakistani man, has been accused of killing the Wall Street Journal reporter. He has been on death row since his conviction in 2002. The court delayed until next week hearing the appeal over the lower-court acquittal of Sheikh. Sheikh had reportedly helped lure Pearl to a meeting in the southern Pakistani port city of Karachi in which he was kidnapped. When he was killed, Pearl had been investigating the link between Pakistani militants and Richard C Reid, also known as the “Shoe Bomber”. The lower court’s April ruling acquitted Sheikh and three other accomplices, who had been sentenced to life in jail for their role in the plot. This despite the fact that a letter written by Sheikh on July 19, 2019 had acknowledged his involvement in Pearl’s killing. Pearl was abducted January 23, 2002. Pakistani police sought to locate Pearl for weeks until a video received by US diplomats showed his beheading.

Pakistan's top court accepts appeal by Daniel Pearl’s family

Supreme Court of Pakistan has allowed Daniel Pearl's parents to become party to case. Supreme Court suspended Sindh High Court's verdict. Watch this video to know more.

Pakistan SC allows Daniel Pearl's parents to become party to case

The Supreme Court of Pakistan has called out the Pakistan govt for its negligence. The top court has demanded the ouster of the Health Advisor to Pak PM Dr. Zafar Mirza. But Imran Khan is still seeking loan waivers and additional funds. Where is the Pakistan govt spending its relief money? WION's Palki Sharma gets you a report.

Gravitas: Top Court in Pakistan wants health adviser removed | Wuhan Coronavirus

Pakistan's top court has asked the government to remove Health Minister Zafar Mirza over his incapability of handling the coronavirus cases in the country. Watch report:

Pakistan SC seeks Health Minister's removal: Mirza unable to handle COVID-19 crisis

The Pakistan government on Saturday said that by April 25, 2020, the country&nbsp;may have 50,000 COVID-19 positive cases.

In its report on National Action Plan against Corona to the Supreme Court, the government said&nbsp;41,000 to be normal cases, 7,000 to be critical and 2,500 to be extremely critical.

This is an assessment and not the final word, the government told the SC.

Until April 25th, Pakistan will have lesser cases than Europe, the report said and added that the government would increase the testing capability daily at the cost of $366 million.

The government has also come up with an emergency health action plan and coronavirus prevention guidelines with the help of provinces and other organisations, the government told the apex court.

A Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) has been formulated for the screening of passengers arriving from abroad and to bury those who succumbed to the deadly virus.

A campaign for prevention from the virus was already underway.

From airports and other entry points, 222 suspected cases of coronavirus have been identified, the report said.

Pakistan also has set up screening counters at all airport entry points and imposed an emergency along its borders of with &nbsp;Iran.&nbsp;

A 300-bed quarantine centre has been built in the capital along with four hospitals with 154 isolation wards.

154 districts in the country have the isolation wards to keep suspected patients, the report added.

The Pakistan government on Saturday said that by April 25, 2020, the country may have 50,000 COVID-19 positive cases. In its report on National Action Plan against Corona to the Supreme Court, the government said 41,000 to be normal cases, 7,000 to be critical and 2,500 to be extremely critical.

The Pakistan government on Saturday said that by April 25, 2020, the country may have 50,000 COVID-19 positive cases. In its report on National Action Plan against Corona to the Supreme Court, the government said 41,000 to be normal cases, 7,000 to be critical and 2,500 to be extremely critical. This is an assessment and not the final word, the government told the SC. Until April 25th, Pakistan will have lesser cases than Europe, the report said and added that the government would increase the testing capability daily at the cost of $366 million. The government has also come up with an emergency health action plan and coronavirus prevention guidelines with the help of provinces and other organisations, the government told the apex court. A Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) has been formulated for the screening of passengers arriving from abroad and to bury those who succumbed to the deadly virus. A campaign for prevention from the virus was already underway. From airports and other entry points, 222 suspected cases of coronavirus have been identified, the report said. Pakistan also has set up screening counters at all airport entry points and imposed an emergency along its borders of with Iran. A 300-bed quarantine centre has been built in the capital along with four hospitals with 154 isolation wards. 154 districts in the country have the isolation wards to keep suspected patients, the report added.

Pakistan may have 50,000 COVID-19 cases by April 25: Govt tells Supreme Court

In order to give a three-year extension to Chief of Army Staff (COAS) <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-government-to-present-amendment-bill-for-bajwas-extension-as-army-chief-271607">General Qamar Javed Bajwa</a>, Prime Minister Imran Khan hurriedly called an urgent meeting of his Cabinet for&nbsp;approval of proposed amendments to the Constitution and the Army Act.

If the Parliament passes the proposed amendments, PM Imran Khan&nbsp;would have power to extend the tenure of all three defence chiefs for up to three years and at his advice, the president will issue a formal notification.

The cabinet meeting approved the proposed three-year extension in the tenure of the army chief, indicating that General Bajwa would continue to serve as the COAS till 2023.

The apex court last month in a detailed verdict had issued direction to the government to remove all ambiguities and frame a law to the pave the way for giving extension to the Army chief. The Cabinet also decided to introduce an amendment bill in the Parliament on Friday after building a consensus with the opposition on the matter.

According to an amendment, the maximum age limit for an army chief will be 64 years and this will be applied in case of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-imran-khan-led-government-challenges-supreme-courts-decision-on-bajwas-tenure-270355">extension in his term</a>, but the regular age limit of COAS will be 60 years.

Now it would be the prime minister's prerogative whether to give an extension to the army chief in the future. The Army Act's amendments will also be applicable to the chairman of joint chiefs and the other two services chiefs.

A government committee comprising Defence Minister Pervez Khattak, Amir Dogar, Ali Muhammad Khan and Azam Swati has also been formed to hold talks with the opposition parties regarding the amendment bill.

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The court, after grilling the attorney general for three days over the matter, had decided that General Bajwa would remain COAS during the six-month period in which the parliament would draft laws regarding the extension and appointment of an army chief.

"We would like to emphasise that this crucial matter of the tenure of COAS and its extension, which has a somewhat chequered history, is before the Parliament, to fix for all times to come," wrote Justice Syed Mansoor Ali Shah, a member of the three-judge bench which heard the case, in the court's 43-page judgment.

"It is now for the people of Pakistan and their chosen representatives in the parliament to come up with a law that will provide certainty and predictability to the post of COAS, remembering that in strengthening institutions, nations prosper," the court had noted.

In order to give a three-year extension to Chief of Army Staff (COAS) General Qamar Javed Bajwa, Prime Minister Imran Khan hurriedly called an urgent meeting of his Cabinet for approval of proposed amendments to the Constitution and the Army Act.

In order to give a three-year extension to Chief of Army Staff (COAS) General Qamar Javed Bajwa, Prime Minister Imran Khan hurriedly called an urgent meeting of his Cabinet for approval of proposed amendments to the Constitution and the Army Act. If the Parliament passes the proposed amendments, PM Imran Khan would have power to extend the tenure of all three defence chiefs for up to three years and at his advice, the president will issue a formal notification. The cabinet meeting approved the proposed three-year extension in the tenure of the army chief, indicating that General Bajwa would continue to serve as the COAS till 2023. The apex court last month in a detailed verdict had issued direction to the government to remove all ambiguities and frame a law to the pave the way for giving extension to the Army chief. The Cabinet also decided to introduce an amendment bill in the Parliament on Friday after building a consensus with the opposition on the matter. According to an amendment, the maximum age limit for an army chief will be 64 years and this will be applied in case of extension in his term, but the regular age limit of COAS will be 60 years. Now it would be the prime minister's prerogative whether to give an extension to the army chief in the future. The Army Act's amendments will also be applicable to the chairman of joint chiefs and the other two services chiefs. A government committee comprising Defence Minister Pervez Khattak, Amir Dogar, Ali Muhammad Khan and Azam Swati has also been formed to hold talks with the opposition parties regarding the amendment bill. × The court, after grilling the attorney general for three days over the matter, had decided that General Bajwa would remain COAS during the six-month period in which the parliament would draft laws regarding the extension and appointment of an army chief. "We would like to emphasise that this crucial matter of the tenure of COAS and its extension, which has a somewhat chequered history, is before the Parliament, to fix for all times to come," wrote Justice Syed Mansoor Ali Shah, a member of the three-judge bench which heard the case, in the court's 43-page judgment. "It is now for the people of Pakistan and their chosen representatives in the parliament to come up with a law that will provide certainty and predictability to the post of COAS, remembering that in strengthening institutions, nations prosper," the court had noted.

Pak PM Imran Khan seeks powers to extend General Bajwa's tenure

Pakistan government on Thursday filed a civil miscellaneous petition with the Supreme Court seeking a stay order on the apex court's verdict regarding the extension of Army Chief Javed Qamar Bajwa's extension.

The petition asked that a stay order should remain in effect until a decision on the government's review petition on the verdict has been made, Dawn reported.

On November 28, 2019, the Supreme Court had asserted that the country's Army Act lacks clauses to justify Bajwa's extension and ordered the government to legislate on the Pakistan Army chief's extension/reappointment.

In response, the Pakistan government submitted a review petition against the top court's verdict, seeking it to be set aside asserting that the verdict has "glaring omissions and mistakes".

Meanwhile, Prime Minister Imran Khan on Wednesday headed a cabinet meeting to approve proposed amendments to the Constitution and the Army Act, Dawn reported.

The government will also introduce the amendment bill in Parliament on Friday after building a consensus with the opposition on the matter.

Bajwa is turning 60 this year.

Prime Minister Khan had extended Bajwa's tenure for another three years on August 19, 2019.

The extension was then challenged on the grounds that it is offensive to Article 243(4)(b) of the Constitution.

The case was initially filed by the Jurists'&nbsp;Foundation but after it asked to withdraw the case, the court decided to take it up against itself.

During the hearing, the court explored the scope of Article 243 of the Constitution, and the Pakistan Army Act, 1952.

On November 28, the court extended Bajwa's tenure by six months and ordered the government to make a law regulating such appointments.

The detailed 43-page written verdict in the case was released on December 16.

The judgement stated that the matter is being handed over to parliament in order to avoid such mistakes in the future. It also urged parliament to assign a tenure for the post of the army chief.

It added that the federal government had included the word, extension, during the hearing held on November 26, however, the legislation was incorrect as it did not mention the details of the army chief`s period of services and retirement age.&nbsp;

Pakistan government on Thursday filed a civil miscellaneous petition with the Supreme Court seeking a stay order on the apex court's verdict regarding the extension of Army Chief Javed Qamar Bajwa's extension.

Pakistan government on Thursday filed a civil miscellaneous petition with the Supreme Court seeking a stay order on the apex court's verdict regarding the extension of Army Chief Javed Qamar Bajwa's extension. The petition asked that a stay order should remain in effect until a decision on the government's review petition on the verdict has been made, Dawn reported. On November 28, 2019, the Supreme Court had asserted that the country's Army Act lacks clauses to justify Bajwa's extension and ordered the government to legislate on the Pakistan Army chief's extension/reappointment. In response, the Pakistan government submitted a review petition against the top court's verdict, seeking it to be set aside asserting that the verdict has "glaring omissions and mistakes". Meanwhile, Prime Minister Imran Khan on Wednesday headed a cabinet meeting to approve proposed amendments to the Constitution and the Army Act, Dawn reported. The government will also introduce the amendment bill in Parliament on Friday after building a consensus with the opposition on the matter. Bajwa is turning 60 this year. Prime Minister Khan had extended Bajwa's tenure for another three years on August 19, 2019. The extension was then challenged on the grounds that it is offensive to Article 243(4)(b) of the Constitution. The case was initially filed by the Jurists' Foundation but after it asked to withdraw the case, the court decided to take it up against itself. During the hearing, the court explored the scope of Article 243 of the Constitution, and the Pakistan Army Act, 1952. On November 28, the court extended Bajwa's tenure by six months and ordered the government to make a law regulating such appointments. The detailed 43-page written verdict in the case was released on December 16. The judgement stated that the matter is being handed over to parliament in order to avoid such mistakes in the future. It also urged parliament to assign a tenure for the post of the army chief. It added that the federal government had included the word, extension, during the hearing held on November 26, however, the legislation was incorrect as it did not mention the details of the army chief`s period of services and retirement age.

Pakistan government files petition seeking stay on Supreme Court verdict on Bajwa's extension

Prime Minister Imran Khan-led Pakistan government has filed a review petition on Chief of Army Staff (COAS) <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-supreme-court-gives-6-month-extension-to-army-chief-qamar-bajwa-265076">General Qamar Javed Bajwa's tenure extension</a> and seeks a larger bench to hear the matter.&nbsp;

Pakistan Supreme Court, last month, granted a conditional extension to incumbent Chief of Army Staff (COAS) General Qamar Javed Bajwa stating that he will continue serving as Chief of Army Staff for six months. The Parliament was to decide on his further tenure.

The PTI government's move follows the retirement of Chief Justice Asif Saeed Khosa who had delivered the Bajwa's extension last month.&nbsp;

"The extension of Chief of Army Staff (COAS) is for 6 months, subject to relative legislation through parliament which will decide his further tenure," Pak Chief Justice then ruled.

Pakistan's apex court, in its ruling last month, suspended the decision to extend Bajwa's tenure which was approved by the government for three years in August.

The top court cited a series of irregularities and ordered the government and the army to produce legal provisions and detailed arguments on the extending Bajwa's tenure for three years.

 
&nbsp;

Prime Minister Imran Khan-led Pakistan government has filed a review petition on Chief of Army Staff (COAS) General Qamar Javed Bajwa's tenure extension and seeks a larger bench to hear the matter.

Prime Minister Imran Khan-led Pakistan government has filed a review petition on Chief of Army Staff (COAS) General Qamar Javed Bajwa's tenure extension and seeks a larger bench to hear the matter. Pakistan Supreme Court, last month, granted a conditional extension to incumbent Chief of Army Staff (COAS) General Qamar Javed Bajwa stating that he will continue serving as Chief of Army Staff for six months. The Parliament was to decide on his further tenure. The PTI government's move follows the retirement of Chief Justice Asif Saeed Khosa who had delivered the Bajwa's extension last month. "The extension of Chief of Army Staff (COAS) is for 6 months, subject to relative legislation through parliament which will decide his further tenure," Pak Chief Justice then ruled. Pakistan's apex court, in its ruling last month, suspended the decision to extend Bajwa's tenure which was approved by the government for three years in August. The top court cited a series of irregularities and ordered the government and the army to produce legal provisions and detailed arguments on the extending Bajwa's tenure for three years.

Pakistan: Imran Khan-led government challenges Supreme Court's decision on Bajwa's tenure

Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan on Wednesday summoned an emergency meeting of Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf's (PTI) core committee to discuss the conviction of former military <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pervez-musharraf-an-army-general-dictator-and-convict-268670">dictator Pervez Musharraf</a> in a high treason case.

The Prime Minister was in Geneva on Tuesday to attend the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-pm-imran-khan-once-again-issues-nuclear-threat-to-india-this-time-over-citizenship-amendment-act-268834">"Global Refugee Forum"</a> when the special court formed to try the ex-president announced its verdict awarding him the death penalty for imposing a state of emergency in 2007 and suspending the Constitution.

Khan had to cut short his visit to the European country in the wake of the verdict, according to The News International.

The verdict, announced by a three-member bench of the special tribunal, was received with a 'lot of pain and anguish' by the Pakistan Army.

The government, too, expressed its reservations to the verdict, saying that the requirements for a fair trial under Article 10-A were not fulfilled in the case.

Also Watch:&nbsp;Musharraf has right to appeal within 30 days, currently in a Dubai hospital

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Attorney General Anwar Mansoor Khan has already made it clear that the government will not oppose an appeal against the special court's verdict.

In the meeting today, the ruling party is further expected to discuss matters related to legislation regarding the extension of services of the army chief and the appointment of a chief election commissioner and other members of the electoral body.

The PTI's legal team will brief the members about the extension issue after the detailed <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/musharrafs-sentence-received-with-pain-anguish-he-can-never-be-a-traitor-pak-army-268772">verdict of the Supreme Court</a> in this regard.

Meanwhile, UK-based Barrister Toby Cadman, a former representative of Musharraf at the United Nations, on Tuesday pointed out what he deemed 'flaws' in the capital punishment handed to the former president in a high treason case and called for a full review of the case.

Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan on Wednesday summoned an emergency meeting of Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf's (PTI) core committee to discuss the conviction of former military dictator Pervez Musharraf in a high treason case.

Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan on Wednesday summoned an emergency meeting of Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf's (PTI) core committee to discuss the conviction of former military dictator Pervez Musharraf in a high treason case. The Prime Minister was in Geneva on Tuesday to attend the "Global Refugee Forum" when the special court formed to try the ex-president announced its verdict awarding him the death penalty for imposing a state of emergency in 2007 and suspending the Constitution. Khan had to cut short his visit to the European country in the wake of the verdict, according to The News International. The verdict, announced by a three-member bench of the special tribunal, was received with a 'lot of pain and anguish' by the Pakistan Army. The government, too, expressed its reservations to the verdict, saying that the requirements for a fair trial under Article 10-A were not fulfilled in the case. Also Watch: Musharraf has right to appeal within 30 days, currently in a Dubai hospital × Attorney General Anwar Mansoor Khan has already made it clear that the government will not oppose an appeal against the special court's verdict. In the meeting today, the ruling party is further expected to discuss matters related to legislation regarding the extension of services of the army chief and the appointment of a chief election commissioner and other members of the electoral body. The PTI's legal team will brief the members about the extension issue after the detailed verdict of the Supreme Court in this regard. Meanwhile, UK-based Barrister Toby Cadman, a former representative of Musharraf at the United Nations, on Tuesday pointed out what he deemed 'flaws' in the capital punishment handed to the former president in a high treason case and called for a full review of the case.

Imran Khan cuts short Geneva visit, calls emergency meeting to discuss Musharraf verdict

The Supreme Court of Pakistan late on Monday issued a 43-page written verdict in a case related to the extension of Chief of Army Staff (COAS) General Qamar Javed Bajwa.

The written judgment by the court's Justice Mansoor Ali Shah has been issued in connection with its previous short written order in the plea announced on November 28 that had ordered granting six months to the government for the legislation on the matter from the parliament, ARY News reported.

WATCH:&nbsp;Pak PM Imran Khan gave 3-year extension to Army chief Bajwa

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An additional note of the Chief Justice of Pakistan (CJP), Justice Asif Saeed Khosa, was also given in the detailed verdict in the case.

The judgment stated that the matter is being handed over to the parliament in order to avoid such mistakes in the future. It also urged the parliament to assign a tenure for the post of the army chief.

It added that the federal government had included the word, extension, during the hearing held on November 26, however, the legislation was incorrect as it did not mention the details of the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-government-amends-army-regulations-for-bajwas-tenure-extension-264807">army</a> chief's period of services and retirement age.

The government had <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/pakistan-supreme-court-puts-army-chief-bajwas-tenure-extension-on-hold-264579">restricted</a> the tenure of Bajwa for three years under <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-supreme-court-gives-6-month-extension-to-army-chief-qamar-bajwa-265076">regulation 255</a> but it was not eligible to be implemented as it did not define the retirement age of the general in the legislation, the verdict said.

On November 28, the top court had granted a six-month extension to Chief of Army Staff General Qamar Javed Bajwa in his service tenure.

The court while announcing its short written order had given six months to the government for the legislation on the matter from the parliament.

The Supreme Court of Pakistan late on Monday issued a 43-page written verdict in a case related to the extension of Chief of Army Staff (COAS) General Qamar Javed Bajwa.

The Supreme Court of Pakistan late on Monday issued a 43-page written verdict in a case related to the extension of Chief of Army Staff (COAS) General Qamar Javed Bajwa. The written judgment by the court's Justice Mansoor Ali Shah has been issued in connection with its previous short written order in the plea announced on November 28 that had ordered granting six months to the government for the legislation on the matter from the parliament, ARY News reported. WATCH: Pak PM Imran Khan gave 3-year extension to Army chief Bajwa × An additional note of the Chief Justice of Pakistan (CJP), Justice Asif Saeed Khosa, was also given in the detailed verdict in the case. The judgment stated that the matter is being handed over to the parliament in order to avoid such mistakes in the future. It also urged the parliament to assign a tenure for the post of the army chief. It added that the federal government had included the word, extension, during the hearing held on November 26, however, the legislation was incorrect as it did not mention the details of the army chief's period of services and retirement age. The government had restricted the tenure of Bajwa for three years under regulation 255 but it was not eligible to be implemented as it did not define the retirement age of the general in the legislation, the verdict said. On November 28, the top court had granted a six-month extension to Chief of Army Staff General Qamar Javed Bajwa in his service tenure. The court while announcing its short written order had given six months to the government for the legislation on the matter from the parliament.

Pakistan Supreme Court issues detailed verdict on army chief's extension

The Supreme Court of Pakistan granted a conditional extension to incumbent Chief of Army Staff (COAS) General Qamar Javed Bajwa on Thursday.

Bajwa will continue serving as&nbsp;Chief of Army Staff for six months, the court ruled. The Parliament will decide on his further tenure.

"The extension of the Army Chief was challenged. The government moved from one position to another. This was done through Article 342 of the Constitution and Section 255 of the army rules and regulations," Chief Justice Asif Saeed Khosa said while delivering the verdict.

Pakistan Chief Justice also said that&nbsp;"In spite of the assistance from the Attorney General,"&nbsp;the court "could not find any provision in the law."&nbsp;

"Attorney General explained under practice but it was not in law."

"The extension of Chief of Army Staff (COAS)&nbsp;is for 6 months, subject to relative legislation through parliament which will decide his further tenure," Pak Chief Justice then ruled.

"President on the advice of the Prime Minister subject to law can appoint an Army Chief, but the law does not specify the tenure. Attorney General has assured that the practice will be codified under the law. Considering Chief of the Army Staff is responsible for the command, administration and is the head of General Headquarter, while exercising judicial restraint say that the matter shall be taken through an act of parliament,"&nbsp;Khosa said while dismissing the petition.

In a surprise ruling on Tuesday, the Supreme Court suspended the decision to extend his tenure, approved by the government in August, citing a series of irregularities and ordering the government and the army to produce legal provisions and detailed arguments on the reasoning behind the move.

On August 19, Prime Minister Khan had approved an extension in the tenure of Gen Bajwa for another three years.

"General Qamar Javed Bajwa is appointed Chief of Army Staff for another term of three years from the date of completion of current tenure," the brief notification issued by the prime minister`s office had said.

Khan extended his tenure citing "regional security environment", according to a local media report.

Meanwhile, Pakistan's government on Tuesday amended its Army Regulations (Rules) to include a provision for an "extension in tenure" of Bajwa.&nbsp;

It is to be noted that over the past two decades, Gen Raheel Sharif is the only army chief to have retired on time.

(With inputs from agencies)

The Supreme Court of Pakistan granted a conditional extension to incumbent Chief of Army Staff (COAS) General Qamar Javed Bajwa on Thursday. Bajwa will continue serving as Chief of Army Staff for six months, the court ruled.

The Supreme Court of Pakistan granted a conditional extension to incumbent Chief of Army Staff (COAS) General Qamar Javed Bajwa on Thursday. Bajwa will continue serving as Chief of Army Staff for six months, the court ruled. The Parliament will decide on his further tenure. "The extension of the Army Chief was challenged. The government moved from one position to another. This was done through Article 342 of the Constitution and Section 255 of the army rules and regulations," Chief Justice Asif Saeed Khosa said while delivering the verdict. Pakistan Chief Justice also said that "In spite of the assistance from the Attorney General," the court "could not find any provision in the law." "Attorney General explained under practice but it was not in law." "The extension of Chief of Army Staff (COAS) is for 6 months, subject to relative legislation through parliament which will decide his further tenure," Pak Chief Justice then ruled. "President on the advice of the Prime Minister subject to law can appoint an Army Chief, but the law does not specify the tenure. Attorney General has assured that the practice will be codified under the law. Considering Chief of the Army Staff is responsible for the command, administration and is the head of General Headquarter, while exercising judicial restraint say that the matter shall be taken through an act of parliament," Khosa said while dismissing the petition. In a surprise ruling on Tuesday, the Supreme Court suspended the decision to extend his tenure, approved by the government in August, citing a series of irregularities and ordering the government and the army to produce legal provisions and detailed arguments on the reasoning behind the move. On August 19, Prime Minister Khan had approved an extension in the tenure of Gen Bajwa for another three years. "General Qamar Javed Bajwa is appointed Chief of Army Staff for another term of three years from the date of completion of current tenure," the brief notification issued by the prime minister`s office had said. Khan extended his tenure citing "regional security environment", according to a local media report. Meanwhile, Pakistan's government on Tuesday amended its Army Regulations (Rules) to include a provision for an "extension in tenure" of Bajwa. It is to be noted that over the past two decades, Gen Raheel Sharif is the only army chief to have retired on time. (With inputs from agencies)

Pakistan: Supreme Court gives 6-month extension to Army Chief Qamar Bajwa

Pak SC hearing Bajwa extension case: Watch live updates here

The Supreme Court of Pakistan on Thursday resumed the hearing in a case pertaining to the extension of incumbent Chief of Army Staff (COAS) Gen Qamar Javed Bajwa.

Today is the last opportunity for the government to satisfy the court on the legal grounds of the said move as the Army chief is set to retire from his post at midnight, Dawn reported.

The three-judge bench comprising Chief Justice of Pakistan Asif Saeed Khosa, Justice Mian Mazhar Alam Khan Miankhel and Justice Syed Mansoor Ali Shah, is hearing the case.

It is to be noted that over the past two decades, Gen Raheel Sharif is the only army chief to have retired on time.

During yesterday`s hearing, the bench was irked by the fact that after Tuesday`s cabinet meeting, Prime Minister Imran Khan submitted a summary to President Arif Alvi for approval to "reappoint" the army chief on his retirement and the new appointment was made under Article 243(4) of the Constitution, but the notification later issued pertains to the "grant of extension" to the COAS for another term of three years.

The army chief was represented by Farogh Naseem, who resigned from his post as law minister yesterday to pursue the case, while Attorney General (AG) Anwar Mansoor Khan presented arguments on behalf of the government.

Tuesday`s hearing was adjourned twice. The second time the court resumed proceedings, the attorney general informed the court that the summary which notifies Gen Bajwa`s extension had referred to Article 243 and Article 245 of the Constitution.

On August 19, Prime Minister Khan had approved an extension in the tenure of Gen Bajwa for another three years.

"General Qamar Javed Bajwa is appointed Chief of Army Staff for another term of three years from the date of completion of current tenure," the brief notification issued by the prime minister`s office had said.

Khan extended his tenure citing "regional security environment", according to The Express Tribune.

Meanwhile, Pakistan`s government on Tuesday amended its Army Regulations (Rules) to include a provision for an "extension in tenure" of Bajwa.&nbsp;

&nbsp;

The Supreme Court of Pakistan on Thursday resumed the hearing in a case pertaining to the extension of incumbent Chief of Army Staff (COAS) Gen Qamar Javed Bajwa.

The Supreme Court of Pakistan on Thursday resumed the hearing in a case pertaining to the extension of incumbent Chief of Army Staff (COAS) Gen Qamar Javed Bajwa. Today is the last opportunity for the government to satisfy the court on the legal grounds of the said move as the Army chief is set to retire from his post at midnight, Dawn reported. The three-judge bench comprising Chief Justice of Pakistan Asif Saeed Khosa, Justice Mian Mazhar Alam Khan Miankhel and Justice Syed Mansoor Ali Shah, is hearing the case. It is to be noted that over the past two decades, Gen Raheel Sharif is the only army chief to have retired on time. During yesterday`s hearing, the bench was irked by the fact that after Tuesday`s cabinet meeting, Prime Minister Imran Khan submitted a summary to President Arif Alvi for approval to "reappoint" the army chief on his retirement and the new appointment was made under Article 243(4) of the Constitution, but the notification later issued pertains to the "grant of extension" to the COAS for another term of three years. The army chief was represented by Farogh Naseem, who resigned from his post as law minister yesterday to pursue the case, while Attorney General (AG) Anwar Mansoor Khan presented arguments on behalf of the government. Tuesday`s hearing was adjourned twice. The second time the court resumed proceedings, the attorney general informed the court that the summary which notifies Gen Bajwa`s extension had referred to Article 243 and Article 245 of the Constitution. On August 19, Prime Minister Khan had approved an extension in the tenure of Gen Bajwa for another three years. "General Qamar Javed Bajwa is appointed Chief of Army Staff for another term of three years from the date of completion of current tenure," the brief notification issued by the prime minister`s office had said. Khan extended his tenure citing "regional security environment", according to The Express Tribune. Meanwhile, Pakistan`s government on Tuesday amended its Army Regulations (Rules) to include a provision for an "extension in tenure" of Bajwa.

Pakistan Supreme Court resumes hearing on Bajwa's extension case

Pakistan Supreme Court issues notice to the defence ministry.

SC puts a hold on Bajwa tenure extension

Pakistani Supreme Court has suspended the notification giving an extension to Army chief <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/soft-coup-in-pakistan-general-bajwa-to-be-part-of-xi-imran-meet-254385">General Qamar Javed Bajwa</a>.

The court issued a notice to all parties including the Pakistan defence ministry and General Bajwa.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-qamar-javed-bajwas-term-as-army-chief-extended-for-another-3-years-244163">General Bajwa </a>was&nbsp;due to retire on November 29, however, he&nbsp;was given an extension for a period of three year by Pakistan PM Imran Khan on August 19.

Pakistan's Supreme Court said that the cabinet has 25 members but only 11 members voted in favour of the resolution, therefore the extension was given without the consent of the majority of the cabinet.

The court further said that only the president of Pakistan can approve the&nbsp;extension of tenure for the Army chief.

The hearing in the case has been adjourned till Wednesday.

Bajwa has held the post since November 29, 2016, and was appointed by former Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif.

Prior to his appointment, Pakistan's Army chief had served as the Inspector General of the Training and Evaluation at the Army General headquarter. He had also served as field commander of X Corps from August 2013 to September 2015.

In 2007, General Bajwa had served as a Brigadier in the United Nations mission in Congo and as a brigade commander.

Pakistani Supreme Court has suspended the notification giving an extension to Army chief General Qamar Javed Bajwa. The court issued a notice to all parties including the Pakistan defence ministry and General Bajwa.

Pakistani Supreme Court has suspended the notification giving an extension to Army chief General Qamar Javed Bajwa. The court issued a notice to all parties including the Pakistan defence ministry and General Bajwa. General Bajwa was due to retire on November 29, however, he was given an extension for a period of three year by Pakistan PM Imran Khan on August 19. Pakistan's Supreme Court said that the cabinet has 25 members but only 11 members voted in favour of the resolution, therefore the extension was given without the consent of the majority of the cabinet. The court further said that only the president of Pakistan can approve the extension of tenure for the Army chief. The hearing in the case has been adjourned till Wednesday. Bajwa has held the post since November 29, 2016, and was appointed by former Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif. Prior to his appointment, Pakistan's Army chief had served as the Inspector General of the Training and Evaluation at the Army General headquarter. He had also served as field commander of X Corps from August 2013 to September 2015. In 2007, General Bajwa had served as a Brigadier in the United Nations mission in Congo and as a brigade commander.

Pakistan Supreme Court puts Army chief Bajwa's tenure extension on hold

Pakistan's Supreme Court on Friday ordered disciplinary action against a judge who convicted former premier Nawaz Sharif, effectively giving a boost to Sharif's appeal against a seven-year jail term for corruption.

Sharif was convicted and jailed last year after failing to prove the source of income that had led to his ownership of a steel mill in Saudi Arabia. Under Pakistani law, that is taken as proof of corruption.

Sharif denied the charges that he said were politically motivated.

His party in July presented a video at a news conference apparently showing the judge who presided over Sharif's conviction, Arshad Malik, as saying he had been pressured into handing down a guilty verdict by individuals he did not identify who had compromising footage of him.

Malik later issued a statement denying he had been blackmailed to convict Sharif and saying the video had been manipulated.

Malik had already been removed from his position in an anti-corruption court and the Supreme Court on Friday ordered him to report back to the High Court in the city of Lahore.

"We expect that after his repatriation appropriate departmental disciplinary proceedings shall be initiated against him," the Supreme Court said in an order.

The Lahore High Court, shortly after receiving the ruling, issued an order suspending Malik from service until he faces an inquiry into his conduct, according to a copy of the order, seen by Reuters.

A seven-member committee would hold the inquiry from Monday, it said.

Malik could not be reached for comment.

The Supreme Court said Malik's "stinking conduct" in connection with the video scandal was abhorrent, and an appeals court should decide whether to consider it as evidence for any relief for Sharif.

An appeal against Sharif's conviction is pending before the Islamabad High Court. The Supreme Court said that was the proper forum to evaluate the video scandal.

Pakistan's Supreme Court on Friday ordered disciplinary action against a judge who convicted former premier Nawaz Sharif, effectively giving a boost to Sharif's appeal against a seven-year jail term for corruption.

Pakistan's Supreme Court on Friday ordered disciplinary action against a judge who convicted former premier Nawaz Sharif, effectively giving a boost to Sharif's appeal against a seven-year jail term for corruption. Sharif was convicted and jailed last year after failing to prove the source of income that had led to his ownership of a steel mill in Saudi Arabia. Under Pakistani law, that is taken as proof of corruption. Sharif denied the charges that he said were politically motivated. His party in July presented a video at a news conference apparently showing the judge who presided over Sharif's conviction, Arshad Malik, as saying he had been pressured into handing down a guilty verdict by individuals he did not identify who had compromising footage of him. Malik later issued a statement denying he had been blackmailed to convict Sharif and saying the video had been manipulated. Malik had already been removed from his position in an anti-corruption court and the Supreme Court on Friday ordered him to report back to the High Court in the city of Lahore. "We expect that after his repatriation appropriate departmental disciplinary proceedings shall be initiated against him," the Supreme Court said in an order. The Lahore High Court, shortly after receiving the ruling, issued an order suspending Malik from service until he faces an inquiry into his conduct, according to a copy of the order, seen by Reuters. A seven-member committee would hold the inquiry from Monday, it said. Malik could not be reached for comment. The Supreme Court said Malik's "stinking conduct" in connection with the video scandal was abhorrent, and an appeals court should decide whether to consider it as evidence for any relief for Sharif. An appeal against Sharif's conviction is pending before the Islamabad High Court. The Supreme Court said that was the proper forum to evaluate the video scandal.

Pakistan Supreme Court orders action against judge in Nawaz Sharif's case

Pakistan on Thursday provided its first official confirmation that Asia Bibi, a <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/asia-bibi-arrives-in-canada-after-leaving-pakistan-report-217001">Christian woman </a>who spent eight years on death row falsely charged with blasphemy, had left the country more than six months after being acquitted by the Supreme Court.

The case created an international furore in October after her release prompted days of rioting and demands for her death from hardline Islamists who rejected the outcome and warned Prime Minister Imran Khan's government not to let her leave.

"Asia Bibi has left Pakistan of her free will," foreign office spokesman Mohammad Faisal told reporters in Islamabad, the capital. "She is a free person and left of her own free will."

Faisal did not confirm media reports that she had joined f<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/asia-bibi-has-left-for-canada-confirms-her-lawyer-216969">amily members in Canada</a>, however.

On Wednesday, Bibi's lawyer Saif-ul-Malook said she had left for Canada to unite with her daughters, who were believed to have already taken asylum there but Canadian authorities have not confirmed this.

In November, Prime Minister Justin Trudeau said Canada was in talks with Pakistan about helping Bibi. This week, Canada said it had no comment on the matter, however.

Pakistan's Supreme Court in January upheld an earlier verdict to free Bibi, but officials have worried that her sudden departure could trigger further riots.

Islamists have been criticising the government and the military for caving into what they call pressure from the West.

Bibi's departure is a Western conspiracy against Islam, a hardline extremist party, Tehreek-e-Labaik Pakistan, which has made blasphemy a rallying cry, said in a statement on Wednesday.

The farm worker and mother of five was convicted in 2010 of making derogatory remarks about Islam after neighbours working in the fields with her objected to Bibi's drinking water from their glass because she was not Muslim.

Two Pakistani politicians who sought to help her were assassinated, including Punjab province governor Salman Taseer, who was shot by his own bodyguard.

Any insult to Islam or the Prophet Muhammad carries a death sentence in Pakistan, although no one has been executed in decades.

Blasphemy is such a sensitive issue that a mere accusation can result in mob lynching. At least 67 people have been killed over unproven blasphemy accusations since 1990, human rights groups say.

The blasphemy laws are often invoked to settle personal scores and to intimidate liberal journalists, lawyers and politicians.

Pakistan on Thursday provided its first official confirmation that Asia Bibi, a Christian woman who spent eight years on death row falsely charged with blasphemy, had left the country more than six months after being acquitted by the Supreme Court.

Pakistan on Thursday provided its first official confirmation that Asia Bibi, a Christian woman who spent eight years on death row falsely charged with blasphemy, had left the country more than six months after being acquitted by the Supreme Court. The case created an international furore in October after her release prompted days of rioting and demands for her death from hardline Islamists who rejected the outcome and warned Prime Minister Imran Khan's government not to let her leave. "Asia Bibi has left Pakistan of her free will," foreign office spokesman Mohammad Faisal told reporters in Islamabad, the capital. "She is a free person and left of her own free will." Faisal did not confirm media reports that she had joined family members in Canada, however. On Wednesday, Bibi's lawyer Saif-ul-Malook said she had left for Canada to unite with her daughters, who were believed to have already taken asylum there but Canadian authorities have not confirmed this. In November, Prime Minister Justin Trudeau said Canada was in talks with Pakistan about helping Bibi. This week, Canada said it had no comment on the matter, however. Pakistan's Supreme Court in January upheld an earlier verdict to free Bibi, but officials have worried that her sudden departure could trigger further riots. Islamists have been criticising the government and the military for caving into what they call pressure from the West. Bibi's departure is a Western conspiracy against Islam, a hardline extremist party, Tehreek-e-Labaik Pakistan, which has made blasphemy a rallying cry, said in a statement on Wednesday. The farm worker and mother of five was convicted in 2010 of making derogatory remarks about Islam after neighbours working in the fields with her objected to Bibi's drinking water from their glass because she was not Muslim. Two Pakistani politicians who sought to help her were assassinated, including Punjab province governor Salman Taseer, who was shot by his own bodyguard. Any insult to Islam or the Prophet Muhammad carries a death sentence in Pakistan, although no one has been executed in decades. Blasphemy is such a sensitive issue that a mere accusation can result in mob lynching. At least 67 people have been killed over unproven blasphemy accusations since 1990, human rights groups say. The blasphemy laws are often invoked to settle personal scores and to intimidate liberal journalists, lawyers and politicians.

Christian woman who was on death row has left country, Pakistan says

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